Specifications for punching holes in the frame of photovoltaic panels

What is a holistic approach to photovoltaic module frame improvement?

We present a holistic approach for the photovoltaic (PV) module frame improvement that considers mechanical, electrical, economic, and ecological aspects for different frame designs. In a comprehensive study, the approach is applied to exemplary PV module frame designs.

Does frame design affect the electrical performance of PV module?

Regarding the electrical side of the analyses, results show that the frame design has a small impact on the electrical performance of PV module. Increasing the front frame width to 20 mm results in decrement of 0.92 W and 0.05% regarding power and efficiency respectively compared with the PV module with the reference frame design.

What is UL Standard 1703 for photovoltaic modules & panels?

An addendum to UL Standard 1703 “Flat Plate Photovoltaic Modules and Panels” recommends metal combinations not exceed an electrochemical potential difference of 0.6 Volts. The frame rails have pre-drilled holes marked with a grounding sign. These holes should be used for grounding purposes and must not be used for mounting the modules.

Do PV modules need to be grounded?

The frame of the PV module, as well as any exposed non-current carrying metal parts of fixed equipment that can be energized must be grounded to avoid electrical shock. Renogy recommends grounding all PV module frames to ensure the voltage between the conductive equipment and the earth ground is zero in all circumstances.

Which materials should be used to install photovoltaic modules?

JA Solar recommends that when installing modules at the seaside, stainless steel or aluminum materials should be used to contact the photovoltaic modules, and the installation parts should be well protected from corrosion. The tilt angle of the modules is measured between the surface of the modules and a horizontal ground surface.

What are the parameters affecting the design of a PV module?

Relevant parameters that affect the different aspects considered in this study are illustrated in Figure 2. Like common PV module designs, we assume that the rear side frame width is equal or bigger than the front frame width with a fixed frame thickness of 1.8 mm and rubber seal thickness of 2 mm.